TIPKEN, Charles R., Sr.
Kalamazoo
Age 87, passed away on Monday, May 8, 2023. Charles was born in Stroud, Oklahoma on October 19, 1935, the son of the late John F. and Betty (Maze) Tipken. He retired from Eckrich Meat Packing at the time of their closing after 30 years of employment. Later, he spent 20 years working at the Borgess Health & Fitness Center. Charles enjoyed visiting second-hand stores, rummage sales and flea markets, often not purchasing anything. He loved to fish and hunt and was an avid reader, especially fond of Louis L’Amour western novels. Charles also loved his dogs. On March 6, 1953, he married Delma R. Matlock, the love of his life, who passed away on August 13, 2014. Charles is survived by his children, Tericia (Gary) Melson, LaVonna (Wes) Russell, Charles, Jr. (Doris) Tipken, Ron (Cheryl) Tipken, Delores Anderson and Doug (Deanna) Tipken; 16 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren and several great-great-grandchildren; and his sister, Patricia Henson. Besides his parents and wife, Delma, Charles was preceded in death by his brother, Frederick Tipken; sister, Sharon Tipken and brother in-law, Bo Henson. A graveside service will be held at Mt. Ever-Rest Memorial Park – South, located on South Westnedge Ave., on Saturday, May 13, 2023 at 11:00 AM. A celebration of Charles’ life will immediately follow the graveside service at the family residence, located at 1321 Barclay Dr., Kalamazoo, MI 49004. Memorial contributions in his memory may be made to the West Michigan or Bronson Cancer Centers.